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Can local elections help to strengthen societal peace after civil war? Evidence from municipal elections in Mozambique

Mross, Karina
External Publications (2026)

in: Civil Wars, first published 17.09.2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/13698249.2026.2665948
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How do local elections affect societal peace after civil war? Existing research focuses on national elections or secession risks. This article examines municipal elections in post-war Mozambique and their impact on social cohesion (positive horizontal and vertical societal relations). Based on 33 semi-structured interviews conducted in Maputo and Nampula in 2019, the analysis finds limited but positive effects, mainly through improved state-society relations, more inclusive representation, and a greater sense of belonging. However, these gains are constrained by an autocratic context and centralised party structures. Against theoretical expectations, local elections neither enhanced inter-party cooperation nor intensified social divisions.

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